Offences involving PMA lookalikes up by more than 5 times in 2024, LTA taking firm action

PMA lookalikes typically have more than one seat, classified as PMDs: LTA

Last year, the number of offences involving “personal mobility aid (PMA) lookalikes” increased by more than five times.

In a Facebook post on Thursday (20 Feb), the Land Transport Authority (LTA) said it is taking “firm action” regarding these cases.

Source: Land Transport Authority on Facebook

PMA lookalikes not allowed on pedestrian-only paths & footpaths

LTA defined PMA lookalikes as devices which typically have more than one seat.

Source: Land Transport Authority on Facebook

This classifies them as personal mobility devices (PMDs), LTA said.

Source: Land Transport Authority on Facebook

Thus, they are only allowed on shared paths and cycling paths, according to the Active Mobility Act that came into force in 2018.

This is unlike real PMAs, which are also allowed on pedestrian-only paths and footpaths.

PMDs must also comply with device criteria and be UL2272-certified, as well as be inspected and certified by LTA.

Source: Land Transport Authority on Facebook

38 offences involving PMA lookalikes in 2024

In 2024, there were 38 offences involving PMA lookalikes, an LTA spokesman told The Straits Times (ST).

This is a significant increase from just six cases in 2023.

Common offences include riding non-compliant devices and riding on the wrong paths.

Source: Land Transport Authority on Facebook

LTA taking action on users & sellers of non-compliant devices

LTA has been taking firm action against errant users and those selling non-compliant devices, it said.

The authority will continue to take action, with offenders facing fines of up to S$10,000 and/or jail terms of up to six months.

Source: Land Transport Authority on Facebook

It urged the public to purchase only compliant active mobility devices and “exercise caution”.

New rules for PMA use will be implemented by end-2025

Additionally, LTA revealed that new rules for PMA usage will be implemented by the end of this year.

The regulations were recommended by the Active Mobility Advisory Panel and accepted by the Ministry of Transport in March 2024.

They will allow only medically certified users to use PMAs to prevent misuse by the able-bodied. The disabled and seniors subsidised under government aid schemes will not need to be additionally certified.

Source: Land Transport Authority on Facebook

The speed limit of 10km/hr for PMAs will also be lowered to 6km/hr — aligned to typical brisk walking speed, going by the principle that PMAs are intended for use as a replacement for walking.

Also read: Family of 5 flouts rules by riding together on PMA outside Anchorpoint

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Featured image adapted from Land Transport Authority on Facebook.